i have a 1997 f150 supercab 4x4. the truck has 76,000 miles on it. i have a problem and would like some support. when backing up into a parking spot and turning my wheel i hear a poping noise from the left front. actually making any slow turn (this is when i notice the noise) i can hear the poping noise. i have heard these trucks have a problem with ball joints wearing out. is this the possible problem? any help would be great.

 

I have a 97 4x4 75k mi. that had the same problem. Mine would also pop when hitting an incline while turning, like a driveway. My truck had bad lower ball joints. the boots were completly deteriorated. you can check the boots by lifting the fingers on the plastic skirts that protect the boots. seems like the boots are made of some kind of silicone or something. I replaced the ball joints myself, but don't recomend it unless you have access to a press. good luck.